THERE was no avoiding the Christmas shopping season in Belfast today as shoppers were out in force for Black Friday deals.
Discounts were offered on everything from clothing stores to restaurants and even gym memberships.
Belfast Chamber's Chief Executive Simon Hamilton said: “Black Friday has become an increasingly important day for Belfast’s retailers. Retailers have reported having a busy day‘s trade with strong footfall across the city centre. Whilst we know that we are in a challenging period economically, Belfast Chamber is confident that the city’s unique mix of independent shops and big brands will stand it in good stead”.
Alliance councillor Michael Long said: "On Black Friday, come on down to support our local traders, call into the Market and pick up a bargain."
Green Party councillor Brian Smyth also encouraged shoppers to spend locally instead of chasing online deals
"If you can, support local businesses, cafes, restaurants, pubs etc across Belfast," he said.
"They play such a huge part of our social and community fabric."
Not everyone in the city was gripped by bargain fever, however, as protestors for 'Buy Nothing Day' gathered with placards in Cornmarket.
Offering an alternative "to the frenzy of Christmas shopping and Black Friday," the protestors encouraged people to reduce their consumption citing concerns over the environment, child labour and working conditions from overseas manufacturers.
Meanwhile, retailers reported a "steady start" to Black Friday trading over fears the cost-of-living crisis would discourage shoppers.
Barclaycard Payments, which processes £1 of every £3 spent in the UK, said sales volumes today were largely consistent with last year.
Electricals retailer Currys said that soaring energy bills meant more people were seeking out energy efficient products like air fryers and heat-pump tumble dryers.
